The causes identified by the researchers include power line collision, light pollution, invasive species, and diseases. Threats of marine pollution, plastic ingestion, overfishing, and effects of climate change and fisheries bycatch are possibly contributing to decline as well.

The scientists used ornithological radar to monitor summer movement patterns of Hawaiian Petrels and Newell’s Shearwaters at 13 sites over twenty-one years. They also used numbers of seabirds disorientated by artificial lights each year, a phenomena where fledgling birds become confused by lights, and either collide with structures or fall to the ground, stunned, where they are vulnerable to neighborhood dogs or cats. Lead author of the study Dr. André Raine said:

These seabirds face a wide range of threats. Conservation effort needs to be focused on reducing power line collisions, fall-out related to artificial lights, the control of introduced predators, and the overall protection of their breeding habitats. Many of these efforts are now underway on Kauai, and I am hopeful that these will continue and expand over the next few years.

Efforts to control invasive species populations have been undertaken to benefit the Hawaiian Petrel and Newell’s Shearwater. However, significant threats still exist. Not only is conservation crucial for the survival of the species, but also for the health of Hawaii’s ecosystems.

The Hawaiian Petrel and Newell’s Shearwater are ecologically and culturally important in Hawaii. Continued monitoring and intensive conservation efforts offer hope for these threatened seabirds.

Kupuna Sabra Kauka releasing a rehabilitated fledgling `A`o or Newell’s Shearwater at an event organized by the Kaua’i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project, and offering a blessing of safe passage as this rare seabird begins its very first flight to sea. Island Conservation works with partners and communities like these to provide invasive-species-free islands for our birds and cultural practices. Credit: André Raine

The scientists note that predator-proof fences could help protect the dwindling seabird populations, and that refugia free of lights, powerlines, and predators could help stabilize and reverse the decline of the seabirds. Lehua Islet, already free of powerlines, lights, and other human infrastructure, could serve as a refuge if invasive-species removal takes place. Plans to remove invasive rats from Lehua have been proposed and are currently under review by DLNR. Dr. Patty Baiao, Island Conservation Hawaii Program Manager said:

There is a high probability of success for DLNR’s proposed invasive rat eradication which will dramatically increase predator-free habitat in Hawaii. The project will only succeed with support from a community that prioritizes protecting native seabirds over damaging invasive rats.

Heath earned an MA in Philosophy and Social Policy from American University in Washington, DC, and holds a Bachelor degree double major in Biology and Philosophy from State University of New York (SUNY) at Oswego.